The Intercontinental Championships Tour Review

The Intercontinental Championships Tour hit Bristol this Tuesday, and it is safe to say that it was a Pop-Punk master class. Four bands, from four countries, all under one roof and with only one objective.. to party!

To open the night, were long haulers TROPHY EYES, a five piece from Newcastle, Australia. As an opening act they showed no hesitation. Plenty of crowd participation, ventures into the audience and stage runs made for a great crowd-warmer. A class set, which consisted of nine well-arranged tracks, each continuing the party vibe of the night.

To follow were SEAWAY, a five-piece from Canada, and like Trophy Eyes, they had no restraints on being lower down the bill. These guys were great fun to watch, and they put on an addictive show. Seaway is one of those bands that sound established and ready to hit the top level. They rattled through a set consisting of seven great tracks, most of which came from their most recent release, ‘Hoser’. They ended with the party vibe in full swing and raised the anticipation of seeing the final two bands.

Main support on this tour was KNUCKLE PUCK. After previously touring with Neck Deep over in the states, they were back to experience Neck Deep’s old stomping ground. The reaction to Knuckle Puck was electric and they took advantage of this well educated Pop-Punk crowd. It was clear to see that they are a great party band. They captivated the crowd with a set of both old and new tracks spread over three EP’s. I could not fault these guys on their live performance. I was reminded of the sheer class that America has when it comes to Pop-Punk. It reminded me of Such Gold, another American Pop-Punk band who toured the UK with Funeral For A Friend back in 2012. Knuckle Puck have just been announced for Slam Dunk Festival, so UK fans will not have long to wait before their next dose.

To conclude a great evening were NECK DEEP, the UK representatives. These guys have been relentlessly touring both the UK and the United States over the past couple of years. After doing the whole of Vans Warped Tour last year, and being announced for this year as well, Neck Deep are back to give their home fans something special. Playing for just under an hour, they played through a whole repertoire from classic fan favourites to songs that had never been played in live shows. Each song was met by the capacity crowd singing their hearts out, and it was clear to see how much that meant to the band. Each song was introduced and answered by an ever-increasing roar from the crowd as the set progressed. This venue was the biggest venue on the tour, and it was great to see a capacity crowd proving that the South West needs to have more tours coming its way. The highlight of the set had to be ‘A Part Of Me’, undoubtedly Neck Deep’s most recognizable track. The whole track was sung by both frontman Ben Barlow, and the entire 2000 strong crowd. As the set came to a close, immediate chants began for ‘one more song’. In true Neck Deep style, they came back on to the stage and played ‘Candour’. Tired and star struck, the audience left the O2 both shocked and amazed by what they had just been a part of. The tour concludes in London at a sold out Electric Ballroom. Be sure to keep an eye out for these guys, they are well worth a watch.

Review and Photography by Siôn Roe

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Read my interview with Seaway

Read my interview with Knuckle Puck

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  1. Pingback: SEAWAY Interview • DEVILS GATE MEDIA

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